But that is a hard concept for many of us who “Think Like a Lawyer”!
Yes — you should do your homework. You should plan. You should anticipate tough questions and practice your stories.
But as Bill Belichick once said (the highly successful coach of the New England Patriots):
“Preparation is important for the war. Once a battle starts, you throw it all out the window. You play the war, fight the battle.”
Once you step into that interview, the plan often flies out the window.
The most important thing? Be present. Listen. Engage.
If you’ve been invited to interview, the employer already believes you’re qualified on paper. Now they want to know: Are you someone I want to see and work with every day?
Don’t get bogged down trying to deliver a flawless performance or memorizing every detail. Think of it like a trial — there’s no perfect trial, just as there’s no perfect interview. Your goal isn’t to win every single point but to avoid “reversible error.”
Focus on showing up as your authentic self. Listen carefully. Build connection.
💡Prepare. Then be present. That’s what leaves a lasting impression.